Teacher: Nathan Hayes
School: Hayden Middle School
District: Hayden Valley Schools
District Website: haydenschools.org
School Address: 300 Breeze Basin Blvd, Hayden, CO 81639
Grade Level: 6-8 Grade STEM
Region: Northwest
Project Title: New VEX Robotics
Category: STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics)
Amount Requested: $1,850

Project Description:
We are seeking funds to establish a VEX Robotics program at Hayden Middle School in Hayden, Colorado, a rural town with limited access to advanced STEM resources. Our school serves a diverse population of students, many of whom lack exposure to hands-on STEM learning opportunities. Funding this project will allow us to purchase robotics kits, and launch an extracurricular robotics club. This initiative will empower our students by enhancing their problem-solving, teamwork, and technical skills, preparing them for future academic and career success in an increasingly technological world.

Project Justification:
The requested funds will be used to purchase VEX Robotics kits, which are designed to teach students the principles of robotics, engineering, and computer science. These kits will allow students to design, build, and program robots, giving them practical experience in problem-solving, teamwork, and innovation. Additionally, we will allocate a portion of the funds to purchase classroom storage solutions, ensuring that the robotics equipment is organized and well-maintained.

Our intended outcomes include increased student engagement in STEM subjects, improved critical thinking and collaboration skills, and a stronger foundation for students to pursue further education and careers in STEM fields. By participating in the VEX Robotics program, our students will gain confidence in their abilities and be better prepared for the technological demands of the future.

This project will have a significant impact on our students by providing them with learning experiences that extend beyond the traditional classroom setting. It will empower them to think creatively, work collaboratively, and tackle complex challenges with confidence. In a community where opportunities like this are rare, the VEX Robotics program will be a transformative addition to our school, inspiring a new generation of innovators and problem solvers.

Budget Breakdown:
We are requesting $1,850 to support the implementation of a VEX Robotics program at Hayden Middle School. The majority of the funds, $1,650, will be allocated to purchasing VEX Robotics kits. These kits will provide the essential tools and materials needed for students to design, build, and program their robots. The remaining $200 will be used to purchase storage solutions for the classroom, ensuring that all robotics equipment is organized and safely stored when not in use. This budget will fully equip me and our students to successfully launch and sustain the robotics program.

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